How Much Money Did Secretariat Earn?

Secretariat, the legendary 1973 Triple Crown winner, earned a total of $1,316,808 during his illustrious racing career. This impressive sum placed him among the top-earning racehorses of his time and cemented his place in racing history, although inflation makes direct comparisons to modern earnings complex.

Secretariat’s Earnings Breakdown

While the headline figure is captivating, it’s worthwhile to delve into the details of how Secretariat accumulated his earnings. His racing career, though relatively short, was incredibly impactful, comprising 21 starts with a remarkable record of 16 wins, 3 seconds, and 1 third. These placings, particularly his victories in the Triple Crown races, contributed significantly to his overall wealth.

Key Races and Payouts

• Kentucky Derby (1973): $122,640
• Preakness Stakes (1973): $83,700
• Belmont Stakes (1973): $67,560
• Marlboro Cup Invitational Handicap (1973): $150,000
• Man o’ War Stakes (1973): $94,740
• Canadian International Stakes (1973): $99,759

These highlight just some of the major races that substantially contributed to his final earnings. His other wins, seconds, and third also had substantial payouts.

Beyond the Racetrack: Endorsements and Legacy

While the $1,316,808 represents Secretariat’s on-track earnings, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this is only part of the story. In the pre-internet age, endorsement deals and merchandising, while existent, were not the financial behemoths they are today. However, Secretariat’s fame and iconic status generated income through stud fees after his retirement, a topic we’ll address later in the FAQs. It is almost impossible to estimate that amount.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Secretariat’s Earnings

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide additional valuable information related to Secretariat’s earnings and legacy.

1. How does Secretariat’s earnings compare to other Triple Crown winners?

While $1,316,808 was a significant amount in the 1970s, many subsequent Triple Crown winners have surpassed Secretariat’s on-track earnings due to factors like increased purse sizes and inflation. However, Secretariat’s dominance in each of the Triple Crown races, setting records that stood for decades, underscores his unparalleled legacy, which extends far beyond mere monetary value.

2. What was the value of $1,316,808 in 1973 adjusted for inflation today?

Adjusting for inflation, $1,316,808 in 1973 is roughly equivalent to over $9 million in today’s dollars. This calculation puts Secretariat’s earnings into a more modern context, highlighting the significant amount he accumulated during his career.

3. How did purse sizes in horse racing change after Secretariat?

Secretariat’s immense popularity undoubtedly contributed to the growing interest in horse racing and, consequently, to increases in purse sizes over time. While direct causation is difficult to prove, the “Secretariat effect” arguably played a role in elevating the sport’s profile and attracting larger investments.

4. What were Secretariat’s stud fees after he retired from racing?

Secretariat commanded substantial stud fees after his retirement, initially set at a very high sum. His stud career, while not as dominant as his racing career, still generated significant revenue. The exact total revenue from stud fees is difficult to pinpoint, as these figures are generally kept private.

5. Did Secretariat’s owners earn additional money from breeding rights?

Yes, Secretariat’s owners retained the breeding rights, allowing them to earn income from stud fees paid by breeders who wanted to breed their mares with him. This revenue stream was a major component of Secretariat’s overall value, both financially and genetically.

6. How does Secretariat’s lifetime value (racing and breeding) compare to modern horses?

Comparing lifetime value is complex. Modern horses often have shorter racing careers, but potentially lucrative endorsement deals and significantly larger purses. However, Secretariat’s enduring legacy and the impact of his bloodline on the sport would place him among the most valuable horses of all time, even if his on-track earnings are lower than some modern champions.

7. Were there any significant taxes on Secretariat’s winnings?

Yes, like all professional athletes and entertainers, Secretariat’s owners were subject to income taxes on his winnings. The specific tax rates in the 1970s differed from today, but taxes undoubtedly reduced the net amount retained from his racing earnings.

8. What impact did the Secretariat movie have on his legacy and potential earnings?

The Secretariat movie, released in 2010, reignited interest in the horse and his story, undoubtedly increasing the value of Secretariat memorabilia and potentially boosting the market for horses with Secretariat bloodlines. This renewed attention contributed positively to his enduring legacy.

9. How did Secretariat’s earnings contribute to Meadow Stable’s overall financial situation?

Secretariat’s earnings provided a significant financial boost to Meadow Stable, owned by Penny Chenery. His success helped stabilize the stable’s finances and allowed it to continue operating and contributing to the sport.

10. What role did syndication play in increasing Secretariat’s value?

Secretariat was syndicated for a then-record $6.08 million before his final race, dividing his ownership into shares. This syndication significantly increased his value, demonstrating the immense confidence investors had in his future as a stallion. It made him the most expensive horse ever syndicated at the time.

11. Did Secretariat win any awards that came with additional financial incentives?

Beyond the prize money from his race wins, Secretariat received numerous awards and accolades, including Horse of the Year honors. While these awards didn’t typically come with direct financial incentives in the form of cash prizes, they significantly enhanced his prestige and marketability, indirectly increasing his value.

12. What were the operating expenses of racing Secretariat during his career?

While Secretariat earned $1,316,808, it’s important to remember that significant expenses were involved in his training, care, and racing. These expenses included trainer fees, jockey fees, veterinary care, transportation costs, and stable upkeep. While precise figures are difficult to obtain, these operating expenses would have substantially reduced the net profit from his earnings.